Question
Question 1d Zinc can be extracted from its ore by electrolysis or by heating the ore with carbon. Give a reason for the method that is used.
Answer
4.7
(293 Votes)
Elizabeth
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
Zinc can be extracted from its ore either by electrolysis or by heating the ore with carbon. The method used depends on various factors. Electrolysis is used when a metal is too reactive to be reduced by carbon or when high purity is required. On the other hand, heating with carbon is a more common and cheaper method used when the metal is less reactive than carbon. In this case, carbon acts as a reducing agent, removing the oxygen from the metal oxide.
Explanation
## Step 1: The question asks for a reason why zinc can be extracted from its ore either by electrolysis or by heating the ore with carbon. ## Step 2: Zinc can be extracted from its ore, sphalerite (ZnS), through two main methods: electrolysis and heating with carbon (also known as reduction with carbon). ### The formula for the reduction with carbon is: **ZnS (s) + C (s) → Zn (l) + CO2 (g)**## Step 3: The choice of method depends on various factors such as cost, availability of resources, and environmental considerations. ## Step 4: Electrolysis is a method that uses electric current to drive a non-spontaneous reaction. It is usually used when a metal is too reactive to be reduced by carbon or when high purity is required. ## Step 5: On the other hand, heating with carbon (reduction) is a more common and cheaper method. It is used when the metal is less reactive than carbon. In this case, carbon acts as a reducing agent, removing the oxygen from the metal oxide.